Zinedine Zidane has reportedly AGREED to become the next France manager, handing Michael Carrick a huge boost in his bid to land the Manchester United job permanently.
The French legend, 53, has been out of work since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 and was constantly linked with the Old Trafford hotseat. But according to Fabrizio Romano, Zizou has reached a verbal agreement with the French Football Federation to take over after this summer’s World Cup .
Current boss Didier Deschamps is expected to step down following the tournament, paving the way for Zidane to finally take the job he’s always wanted. And with one high profile name ruling himself out, Carrick’s chances of keeping the role just got stronger.
The United icon has won FIVE of his six games since taking interim charge, dragging the Red Devils into fourth and firmly in the Champions League race. The hierarchy were always expected to consider big name replacements, but Zidane is now off the market.
CARRICK’S TRANSFER WARNING
But Carrick knows he’s got a massive headache coming this summer regardless of who’s in the dugout. Casemiro is OUT.
The Brazilian veteran, 34, will leave when his contract expires at the end of the season, with United deciding against triggering a one year extension on his £300k a week wages . And Carrick has made it clear that replacing him won’t be easy.
“It’s an important position, I think,” the United boss said. “Not being biased as a midfielder, but it is an important position to try and tie everything together.
“You’re connected to the whole team, emotionally, mentally, showing that composure and understanding. Cas has had a big influence on that. Something we’re fully aware of moving forward” .
THE REPLACEMENT SHORTLIST
United are planning a major midfield overhaul, with Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton understood to be high on the wanted list . Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha, brother of Leeds striker Lukas is also in the frame for around £52m .
But here’s the twist: United have also been impressed by Nottingham Forest’s Ibrahim Sangare, who’d cost significantly less than the £100m rated Anderson . The Ivorian enforcer, 28, fits the Casemiro mould, a proper destroyer who could do the dirty work while others create.
There’s even talk of bringing Scott McTominay BACK from Napoli for £70m . Yes, really.
WHAT IT MEANS
Casemiro has been immense since Carrick took charge, 150 appearances since joining from Real Madrid in 2022, and playing some of his best stuff this season . The gaffer reckons he can still play at the highest level, with MLS clubs circling for his signature .
But United can’t afford to stand still. With Champions League qualification looking likely and Carrick making a serious case for the job, the summer rebuild takes on even greater importance.
One thing’s for sure, replacing Casemiro’s experience, composure and big game knowhow? That’s going to take some doing. And probably a fair few quid.
